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Skinny Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 117 reviews
  • Author: Julian
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Skinny Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a healthy and comforting twist on the classic recipe. By substituting broth for cream and using cauliflower rice in place of regular rice, this dish satisfies cheesy comfort food cravings without the excess calories and fat. It’s quick to prepare, packed with broccoli and cheese, and features a delicious optional crispy topping, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious yet indulgent meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 cups raw broccoli florets
  • 1 bag (12 oz) frozen cauliflower rice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 cups broth (vegetable or chicken, room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese

Optional Crispy Topping

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking the casserole later.
  2. Steam Broccoli: Place the raw broccoli florets in a large microwave-safe bowl and steam by microwaving for 3 minutes. If you prefer your broccoli more tender, microwave for 5 minutes. It will continue cooking in the oven.
  3. Sauté Cauliflower Rice: Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the frozen cauliflower rice and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until thawed and slightly tender.
  4. Add Seasoning and Flour: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper into the skillet with the cauliflower. Stir continuously until the flour absorbs the oil and the mixture becomes lumpy.
  5. Create Sauce Base: Pour in 2 cups of broth and 1/4 cup of milk slowly while stirring continuously. Continue to stir and cook until the sauce simmers and thickens to a gravy-like consistency, about 7-8 minutes.
  6. Melt Cheese and Combine: Turn off the heat and stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese until fully melted. Then add the steamed broccoli florets and mix everything evenly.
  7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined broccoli and cheese mixture into an oven-safe casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
  8. Prepare Optional Topping: If using, mix 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  9. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool slightly, then serve warm for a delicious, healthy comfort meal.

Notes

  • To add protein, consider mixing in shredded cooked chicken before baking.
  • Try different cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
  • Add extra veggies such as zucchini, squash, or cooked diced potatoes for more texture and nutrition.
  • If you prefer a creamier casserole, substitute the broth with low-fat cream or half-and-half, but this will increase the calorie count.
  • Steaming the broccoli longer will yield a softer texture if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Skinny broccoli cheese casserole, healthy broccoli casserole, low fat comfort food, cauliflower rice casserole, cheesy broccoli bake

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Find it online: https://juliandempsey.com/skinny-broccoli-cheese-casserole-recipe/